Mama's Kitchen is gearing up to host the annual Mama’s Day benefit, a culinary celebration of San Diego’s renowned restaurants with tastings, chef demos, and a foodie-focused opportunity drawing.

Now in its 21st year, Mama’s Day takes place on Friday, May 11 from 6:30 to 9:30pm at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at The Aventine. And as always, proceeds will support the organization’s ongoing efforts to prepare and deliver meals at no cost to San Diegans affected by AIDS, cancer and other critical illnesses.

In honor of Mama’s Day, we selected one of the many outstanding volunteers that work hard to make Mama’s Kitchen’s vision a reality every day. Heather Bowden is a passionate member of the Mama’s Kitchen organization, and has been an active donor and volunteer since 2005. Most notable, Bowden is the Chair of Mama’s Day this year, and has added some exciting new entertainment perks into the mix.

A: Native! Born at Mercy Hospital, raised in south Mission Beach. My family moved to La Jolla in the late '70s. I moved after college to Santa Fe, NM for 10 years. I moved back to La Jolla in 2000.

Q: How did you get involved with Mama’s Kitchen?

A: I think it was around 2005. Mama’s is similar to a non-profit I donated (graphic) design work to in Santa Fe in ‘90s. I was losing a lot of friends to AIDS - we all were - but it was the death of my dear friend and roommate that set this wheel in motion. The pain Tommy went through on all levels - the physical pain itself, the psychological & emotional in dealing with his family who rejected that he was even sick much less gay - it was disturbing and profound enough to make a promise: promote awareness and give back even more (I come from a very philanthropic family). When I found Mama’s Kitchen it was a no brainer.

Q: What is your role with the organization?

A: I am a donor and volunteer. And this year’s proud Chair for their monumental annual fundraiser: Mama’s Day.

Q: Why is philanthropy important to you?

A: My parents have always taught me to give back. They lead by example. Selfishly, it makes me feel better to get out of my own muck and take on someone else’s problems. It makes mine look a hell of a lot better. We take too much for granted – it’s a great way to understand that when you think your life is crap, likely someone else is having a much harder time than you. Gratitude, humility and perspective.

Q: Your current profession, outside volunteer work?

A: Ha! That’s right – I do have another job! I run our family business in residential rental properties.

Q: What is your background in education?

A: I went to U.C. Berkeley and majored in art history. Which lead me to being a graphic designer for way too long.